Pennypacker Mills features exhibit on governors with Montco ties

Born in New Hanover Township, John Hartranft took office in 1872 after an illustrious career in the military during the Civil War. During Hartranft’s term, the Financial Panic of 1873, labor disputes with the Molly Maguires, and the Railroad Strikes of 1877 were the top issues. Image from a cigar advertisement, provided by Pennypacker Mills

Except for Philadelphia, no other county has had more men serve as state governors than Montgomery County.

These seven men encompass a group of firsts for Pennsylvania: the first governor to resign, the first governor to divorce, the first governor to remarry, the first lieutenant governor to become governor, the governor serving the shortest term, and the first governor of the Jewish faith.

Advertisement

Each one of these men worked to update transportation and to reduce Pennsylvania’s debt, notes press information from Pennypacker Mills.

Photographs, paintings, and items relating to their terms of office will be on display.

The exhibit galleries are located on the second floor of the mansion and are included with free guided tours of the mansion.

The exhibit runs until Jan. 15, 2014.

Pennypacker Mills Historic Site is operated by the Montgomery County Department of Assets and Infrastructure, Division of Parks, Trails, and Historic Sites.